Nestled in the Kauaeranga Valley, en route to the Coromandel Forest Park and the Pinnacles hiking track, this little oasis feels beautifully remote whilst being quite accessible, just 15 minutes from the township of Thames.

As the New Zealand winter deepens, so does our desire to escape it. We find ourselves dreaming of warmer waters and slow, sun filled days. Short of heading to the actual tropics this winter, my family and I managed an equally dreamy little escape to Australia’s most Eastern Point - Byron Bay - Bundjalung Country.

When we slow down enough to notice the light around us, our imaginations can sprout and gratitude is encouraged to grow. My aim, with all of my tiny adventures is to slow down enough for my imagination and gratitude to be nurtured, and by sharing this, hopefully inspire you to do the same.

Marshmellow roasting and story telling by the fire-pit saw the fading light turn to nightfall. The resident ruru swooped in as we were heading back to the cabins and entertained us with its inquisitiveness. Kokako Retreat is home to many native birds who are drawn in by the regenerating bush surrounding the site.

I’d been admiring this corner of paradise and its hut from a far for a few months, imagining the stories it held, ahead of our planned winter stay. The five forms of transport we took added adventure to the journey and built our anticipation to reach this fabled destination.

Ringa Kaha Cabin is a short drive from National Park Village but it has a feel of absolute remoteness upon arrival. Sitting high on the landscape, with striking views, the cabin has been cleverly situated to privately bathe in its surroundings.

Give me a vista of Aotearoa wilderness, accompanied by birdsong and sunsets and I’m on the way to wellness. Add some wine, cheese and banter with my love by the fire pit and I’m there… The cedar barrel sauna with a view tipped me over.

Waking at first light in a glasshouse is like nothing else. Expansive skies rise like a tide, gaining colour and depth around us as we float in the cosy warmth of sheets and pillows. All the beauty of the outdoors, with all of the comfort of indoors. Actual luxury.